“Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one” -Albert Einstein. The reality in which individuals live, is quite often not what is seems. We accept what we understand about it even though we know it is just an illusion In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s renowned novel The Great Gatsby, an obvious divide between appearance and reality is illustrated. In the novel, Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom pursue the image of the upper class, however they do not actually live this lifestyle. Firstly, Jay Gatsby is a poor man who turns to illegal activities in order to gain his wealth. Secondly, Daisy Buchanan is an intelligent woman who appears to be innocent and clueless to fit the image of a wealthy house wife. Lastly, although Tom Buchanan is having an affair with Myrtle Wilson, his mistress, he appears to be a successful man with a perfect family who came from wealth. First of all, Gatsby aims for the upper class but does not acquire it. Early in the novel, Nick, a friend of Gatsby, describes the image of Gatsby’s house. He refers to his house as a small eyesore in comparison to that of Gatsby’s Mansion: “It was a factual imitation of some Hotel de Ville in Normandy, with a tower on one side, spanking new under a thin beard of raw ivy, and a marble swimming pool, and more than forty acres of lawn and garden. It was Gatsby’s mansion”(Fitzgerald 11). Fitzgerald uses visual imagery to show how the elegance of Gatsby’s mansion makes it one of the best homes in West Egg. Gatsby appears rich and powerful because he posses many material goods which suggest great wealth. Through this, the reader automatically assumes that Gatsby has come from money and is of the high social status. Furthermore, Nick reveals the true story of Gatsby’s life; clarifying the rumors. “James Gatz- that was really or at least his legal name. He changed it at the age of seventeen...His parents were shiftless and unsuccessful farm people”(Fitzgerald 94-95)